The Hypocrisy of “Saint Sue Hansen” in Montrose County Leadership

Montrose County faces ongoing leadership turmoil in its top administrative role. Commissioner Sue Hansen, often praised in official circles for her dedication to issues like public lands, agriculture, and water, has drawn sharp criticism for apparent inconsistencies in her approach to county governance and dubbed the “Queen Bee” due to her classic narcissistic tendencies or “Saint Sue Hansen” because a certain “publisher” believes she can “do no wrong”. Let’s examine her recent actions regarding the County Manager position, her own qualifications, and rumored future plans, while exploring concerns about transparency and judgment.

Questioning Qualifications While Stepping In

In 2025, the Board of County Commissioners appointed David White, a former county commissioner with more than 16 years of elected experience and extensive business background, as Interim County Manager effective July 23, 2025. White's appointment aimed to provide continuity during a search for a permanent replacement. However, reports indicate Hansen reportedly expressing that White was "not qualified" for the full role despite his credentials and White was encouraged not to apply for the permanent position.

The county has operated without a permanent manager for months, with White serving in an interim capacity through 2025. The board renewed his contract multiple times for stability during budgeting and other processes. Releasing an experienced interim leader before securing a permanent hire raises questions about whether this serves county efficiency or personal influence.

Hansen has also either relieved of employment or forced out long term valuable employees due to personal grudges.  Now, a local “publisher” believes this is ok for “Saint Sue Hansen” but not for others whom he has taken a personal dislike.   

Hansen's Background and the Hospital Land Transfer

Sue Hansen has served as Montrose County Commissioner for District 2 since her appointment in 2018, followed by two unopposed elections to full terms. Hansen’s business experience primarily stems from motivational speaking and her time as commissioner. A notable decision during her tenure involved discussions and transfer of county-owned property, including buildings and land, to Montrose Regional Health (MRH). Giving away valuable taxpayer-owned real estate for no direct compensation, brings into question whether it reflects strong fiscal stewardship of taxpayer funds.  The move has fueled debate over whether it truly benefited taxpayers or favored institutional interests and to the competency of those who handed the property over without compensation to the taxpayers.  This along with other questionable fiscal decisions, like the committing of taxpayer funds for two major ill-advised construction projects (renovation of the Historic Courthouse AND the new North Campus) when the BOCC was advised by finance that the county revenue would only support one sparked massive controversy.   

Rumors of a "Besty" Takeover

Speculation persists that Hansen may favor bringing in Barbara Bynum, a former Montrose Mayor and political ally, as the next County Manager. Bynum served multiple terms on Montrose City Council, including as mayor, and led efforts to fund and build the Montrose Community Recreation Center. She championed a successful 0.3 percent sales tax increase after an earlier failed attempt, resulting in a $28.5 million facility.

Opponents point to controversies during Bynum's time as mayor and recreation district leader. The recreation center relies on a dedicated sales tax that applies county-wide, yet some residents outside the city limits argue they pay for a facility they are not allowed to use. This has led to accusations of uneven benefits and "sleight of hand" in funding structures, with claims it burdened non-users while driving local costs. Bynum's record also includes a failed run for state senate, highlighting her political ambitions and raising concerns about entrenchment in local power circles.

A Pattern of Concern

Hansen's actions suggest a troubling pattern: dismissing qualified leadership while commissioners maintain operational control, something that is out of the scope of the county commissioners who are tasked with policy, not operational prowess, backed by a resume insufficient for overriding experienced administrators. With the manager search ongoing into 2026, residents deserve clarity on whether decisions prioritize Montrose County's stability or personal alliances. Montrose County residents should demand accountability to ensure taxpayer interests remain paramount, rather than allowing any single figure to dominate without robust checks as we are seeing today.

Michael J Badagliacco, “MJB”

Michael is a father of five, grandfather of three, United States Air Force veteran, international recording artist, and Editor-in-Chief of the Colorado DOGE Report. He is passionate about the United States of America and the founders’ genius in crafting the Constitution.